Black cohosh
Cimicifuga racemosa
Black cohosh is part of the Cimicifuga genus and its scientific name is Cimicifuga racemosa. The racemosa part of this plant's botanical name means 'with flowers borne in racemes'.Black cohosh grows as a perennial and is a herb / flower. Being a perennial plant, it tends to grow best over several years (approx 3 years and greater). Black cohosh is known for its forb growing habit. Expect harvests to start to occur in late autumn.
United States is believed to be where Black cohosh originates from.
Black cohosh is great for inexperienced gardeners and those that like low maintainance gardens.
This plant info is provided by the myfolia gardener's wiki. All details about Black cohosh have been kindly provided by our members.
How to grow Black cohosh
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Full Shade
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High
This naturally grows in wooded areas, and prefers rich, moist soil with lots of leaf mulch. Dappled shade to full shade is best. It can be propagated by seed or through root division. It is a prolific reseeder when given the right conditions.
A full shade position will ensure your plant thrives and remember to water often. Use Zone 3 - Zone 8 as your guideline for the appropriate climate for this plant. Keep in mind when planting that Black cohosh is thought of as hardy, so this plant will survive close to or on freezing temperatures.Growing Black cohosh from seed
Sow seed for next year in late summer/early autumn about 1/4 below surface. This can be done in flats or direct.
Transplanting Black cohosh
Transplant the seedlings in spring after frost has left the ground.
Harvesting Black cohosh
Gather Black Cohosh rootstock in the fall after the fruit has formed. Wash roots carefully, blot with paper towel or absorbent cloth. Dry in a well ventilated area away from smoke, pets and pests, preferably on wire racks. 1
Companion plants for Black cohosh
These plants have been known to grow well alongside Black cohosh so consider planting:
Repellent plants for Black cohosh
These plants will not grow well with Black cohosh so avoid planting these within close proximity:
Common Black cohosh problems
These problems, diseases and pests are known to affect Black cohosh plants:
Other names for Black cohosh
Black bugbane, American baneberry, Black snakeroot, Bugbane, Bugwort, Cimicifuga, Rattleroot, Rattleweed, Squawroot, Cimicifuga racemosa
